El Clot – Mark Etheridge

A very nice first autumn visit to the Clot this afternoon, with all the usual suspects present. These included a big party of more than 20 Long-tailed Tits at the dry hide, a Reed Warbler playing peek-a-boo at the scrape hide, and Subalpine Warbler – there are quite a few around the Dry Hide area. Very distinctive call, around half a dozen seen.

At least three Bluethroats were seen, one with muted colours and another was a big show off with very fine plumage.

Nice surprise of the afternoon, a Wryneck just as I was leaving at about 7 p.m. The light wasn’t the best, this is more of a record shot, will try for something better in the next few weeks. This is the third year I’ve seen them around the dry hide.

Also seen but not photographed – Cettis Warbler, Green Woodpecker, Marsh Harrier, Sardinian Warbler and an LBJ which might have been a Whinchat. Also at least two Water Rail “sharming” at each other deep in the reeds.

Notices

Next field trip – Thursday 14th February – San Felipe Visitor Centre, El Rocio, Elche area

El Hondo North Gate opening times are – Saturday 8.30 – 11.30. You have to be there at 8.30 and you cannot leave until 11.30. To gain entry you need to telephone the staff on 966 678 515, or you can email them at – parque_elhondo@gva.es

The Visitor Centre Reserve at San Felipe is open at all times and the office there is open Tuesday to Friday 9am to 2pm, Saturday 12 noon to 2pm, Sunday and holidays 9 to 2pm.